In the West, the term "hijab" is often used to describe all kinds of Muslim head coverings. However, the world of Islamic veils is far more diverse than many people might think. There are numerous styles, materials and cultural variations that make each type of veil unique. In this blog post, we'll dive deep into the world of hijabs and veils and show you what meanings they have in different cultures. Not only will you learn about the different types, but you'll also learn how to create your own personal modest fashion look.
1. What is a hijab?
In Western usage, hijab is often used as a general term for Muslim headscarves. However, the term goes far beyond wearing a scarf - it symbolizes modesty and respect. The hijab can be worn in many ways and is an important part of the Islamic fashion world.
2. The different types of veils in the Islamic world
Shayla
The Shayla is a long, rectangular scarf that is wrapped around the head and fastened to the shoulders. It is particularly popular in the Gulf States and is often used synonymously with the hijab. Unlike the classic hijab, the Shayla leaves the face and neck completely uncovered. This veil is available in a variety of colors, fabrics and styles and adapts to different fashion preferences.
Eşarp
The Eşarp is a square silk scarf that is worn mainly in Turkey. The use of silk gives this veil a special elegance, and it is available in many different designs and colors. Eşarps are ideal for festive occasions and offer a luxurious look.
Tudung
The tudung (also tudong) is the most common head covering for Muslim women in Southeast Asia. In countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, the tudung is part of everyday clothing and covers the hair, ears, and neck while leaving the face bare. In Indonesia, there are even tudungs with sewn-in visors that protect the face from the sun.
Chador
The chador is a large, semi-circular piece of fabric that covers the entire body. The chador is particularly popular in Iran and other Shiite societies. Black is the most commonly worn color, but colorful versions are also popular, especially in private or in the mosque. The chador is often combined with a smaller headscarf underneath.
Al-Amira
The Al-Amira veil is a two-piece veil consisting of a tight-fitting cap and a tube-like scarf. This veil is particularly practical and easy to wear, which makes it popular with many women. It is often worn in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Khimar
The khimar is a long, cape-like veil that reaches just above the waist. This veil covers the hair, neck, and shoulders, but leaves the face uncovered. Khimars are particularly popular among women in Egypt as they provide additional protection.
Battoulah
The battoulah is one of the lesser-known head coverings. It is a mask worn mainly by older women in the Gulf States, especially Bedouins. It provides protection from the desert dust and gives the wearer modesty. Although the tradition is fading, it is still worn as a cultural symbol in some areas.
Burka
The burka is the most conservative form of Islamic veiling. It covers the entire body, including the face, leaving only a mesh covering the eyes. The burka is particularly widespread in Afghanistan, but it is also worn in other Central Asian countries.
Boshiya
The Boshiya (also Bushiyyah or Ghatwa) is similar to the burqa, but has no opening for the eyes. It is worn mainly in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Jerusalem and consists of a light, transparent fabric that covers the entire face.
Dupatta
The dupatta is a long, rectangular veil worn primarily in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Often elaborately embroidered, the dupatta is traditionally draped over the shoulders, but can also be used as a headscarf.
Jilbab
A jilbab is a long robe often worn as an alternative to the abaya. It is interpreted differently in different regions - in Indonesia the term refers to a headscarf, while in North Africa it refers to a floor-length dress that covers the entire body.
Niqab
The niqab is a veil that covers the face and leaves only a slit for the eyes. It is worn mainly in Saudi Arabia and some Gulf states. The full niqab covers the entire head and face, while the half niqab leaves the forehead and eye area uncovered.
3. Why do Muslim women wear hijabs?
The decision to wear a hijab or other veil is both religious and cultural for many Muslim women. While the Quran and hadiths indicate that women should cover their heads, there are different interpretations of how these rules are implemented. However, many women wear the hijab for personal reasons, whether as an expression of their faith or as a symbol of their cultural identity.
4. Modern Hijab Trends
In addition to the traditional types of veils, there are also modern modest fashion trends that are becoming increasingly popular worldwide:
Embroidered Hijabs
Embellishments such as embroidery and beads make the hijab a fashion statement.
Voluminous Hijabs
Especially in the Gulf States, it is trendy to wear the hijab voluminously by pinning the hair up and wrapping it with large scarves.
Turbans
In some parts of the Muslim world, turbans are a modern interpretation of headwear that combines elegance and modernity.
Conclusion: A diversity that inspires
The Islamic world offers an impressive variety of veil types and fashion styles. Each region and culture has its own traditions and interpretations of what wearing a veil means. Whether you choose a classic hijab, a shayla or a chador - at Zaytouna you will find the right head covering that combines style and tradition.
Sources:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_female_member_of_the_Haredi_burqa_sect_in_Mea_Shearim.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/157977899415272700/
https://tuddungpeople.com/products/mina-khimar
https://luxxhijabs.com/products/bamboo-modal-hijab-bronzite
https://www.veneeziawear.com/venezia-wear-cicek-desenli-twill-ipek-esarp-mor
https://www.ippekistanbul.com/ipekistanbul-pamuk-ipek-esarp-aksam-sefasi-desen-siyah-saks-30085-11-B.jpg